Fist of Legend

Is it possible for a boring story, framed by an even more tedious narration, to overshadow the experience of kung fu fights choreographed by the master of his field, Yuen Woo-Ping? Fist of Legend is sad proof of this. Director Gordon Chan could have shown at least a little more creativity in transitioning from one fight scene to the next. Although it may not seem like it, the gaps between kicks and punches are filled with thick filler, which requires the viewer to put in a lot of effort to get through. Towards the end, this effort turns into almost suffering. Jet Li's acting skills may not be the strongest wouldn't matter much because when he fights, maybe only his opponent gets to see his face (and even that happens briefly, as Jet's limbs quickly take care of them). But most of the time, Jet Li's presence contributes to the thick filler in between the action sequences. This means that neither the exotic original title nor the presence of numerous Asians throughout can increase the level of poetry that other films abound in and Fist Of Legend lacks. (06/10/2005)

Pretty solid entertainment. A simple story with weak dialogue that serves only as an uninteresting filler between fights, of which there are plenty. The fights are not as spectacular and eye-pleasing as in Chan's films, but Jet Li is still good and some of his stunts are breathtaking. Otherwise, Jet Li is perhaps an even worse actor than Jackie Chan with his mimic minimalism, but I wouldn't dare say that to his face. (02/13/2005)